Regionalization in Local Public Health Systems: Public Health Preparedness in the Washington Metropolitan Area

This article examines case studies of regional preparedness structures in the Washington metro area to understand how they have been organized, implemented and governed, as well as to assess their likely impact on public health preparedness and public health systems generally. It reports on increased public health activities in the area since 9/11 and their effect on preparedness.

It is included in the CJS Resource Library under the categories listed below. Select a link to find other resources in that category.

Background / History: This article discusses the organization and government of the national capital region and evolution of the area’s regional public health efforts.

Communications: This article addresses failures of coordination/communication with federal government health agencies within the region.

Preparedness / Emergency Response: This article discusses various regional structures within the national capital region for emergency preparedness and response and discusses who is in charge during emergencies.

Research and Evaluation: This article is one of four collaborative case studies on regionalization and is based on interviews, document review, observation and the writer’s personal experience.